If you’re following a keto diet and craving a delicious Italian dish, look no further than the keto calzone. A calzone is a folded pizza that is filled with various ingredients, and a keto calzone puts a low-carb twist on this classic favorite. Instead of using a traditional pizza dough, a keto calzone is made with a dough that is high in fat and low in carbohydrates.
The dough for a keto calzone is typically made from a combination of almond flour, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and eggs. These ingredients work together to create a dough that is both pliable and flavorful. The dough is then rolled out and filled with a variety of keto-friendly ingredients such as low-carb veggies, high-quality meats, and a generous amount of cheese.
Key Ingredients for a Keto Calzone
To make a delicious keto calzone, you’ll need a few key ingredients. First and foremost, you’ll need almond flour. Almond flour is a great alternative to traditional all-purpose flour, as it is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. It also adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dough.
Next, you’ll need mozzarella cheese and cream cheese. These two cheeses are essential for creating a dough that is both pliable and cheesy. The mozzarella cheese adds a stretchy, gooey texture, while the cream cheese adds a creamy richness.
In addition to the dough ingredients, you’ll also need a variety of fillings for your keto calzone. Some popular options include low-carb veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. You can also add in high-quality meats such as pepperoni, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken. And of course, don’t forget to load up on your favorite keto-friendly cheeses!
Keto Calzone Recipe – Step by Step Guide
Now that you have all the key ingredients, it’s time to make your keto calzone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect guilt-free meal:
Step 1: Preheat your oven. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your calzone bakes evenly and becomes golden brown.
Step 2: Make the dough. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 2 tablespoons of cream cheese. Microwave the mixture for 1 minute, or until the cheese is melted and can be easily stirred together. Add 1 cup of almond flour and 1 beaten egg to the melted cheese mixture. Stir until the dough comes together.
Step 3: Roll out the dough. Place the dough on a sheet of parchment paper and cover it with another sheet of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Add the fillings. Remove the top sheet of parchment paper and spread your desired fillings over half of the dough, leaving a border around the edges. Be sure not to overfill the calzone, as this can make it difficult to fold and seal.
Step 5: Fold and seal the calzone. Carefully fold the dough over the fillings, creating a half-moon shape. Use your fingers to press the edges of the dough together, sealing the calzone. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Step 6: Bake and enjoy. Transfer the calzone, still on the parchment paper, to a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the calzone is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow the calzone to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips for Making the Perfect Keto Calzone
Making a keto calzone can be a fun and delicious experience. Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect keto calzone every time:
- Don’t overfill the calzone. It’s important to strike a balance between adding enough fillings for flavor and not overloading the calzone. Overfilling can make it difficult to fold and seal the calzone, resulting in a messy final product.
- Use parchment paper for easy assembly. Rolling out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper makes it easier to handle and prevents sticking. It also helps with transferring the calzone to the baking sheet without it falling apart.
- Experiment with different fillings. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings. Try different combinations of veggies, meats, and cheeses to find your favorite flavor profiles. You can even add in a keto-friendly sauce, such as marinara or pesto, for an extra burst of flavor.
- Brush the calzone with an egg wash. To give your keto calzone a beautiful golden brown color, brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg before baking. This will create a shiny, crispy crust that is sure to impress.
- Let the calzone cool before slicing. It can be tempting to dive right into your freshly baked calzone, but allowing it to cool for a few minutes before slicing will help the cheese set and prevent the fillings from oozing out.